Smoky Mountain Realtor, STR Investor & Real Estate Problem Solver

Gatlinburg • Pigeon Forge • Sevierville • Knoxville

Derek Tellier is a seasoned short term rental realtor and full-time investor with a reputation for helping clients creatively and confidently break into the world of vacation rental investing.

After 20 years in the Harley-Davidson industry, Derek was inspired by Luke and Avery Carl to pursue financial freedom through real estate. He dove headfirst into podcasts, books, and BiggerPockets — and by 2018, he had launched the East Tennessee REI Meetup, which still meets monthly in Knoxville and continues to build community among local and out-of-state investors.

In 2019, Derek bought his first rental — a single-family BRRRR he still holds as a long-term rental. Since then, his portfolio has grown to 14 investment properties, including:

• 11 short term rentals,
  
  
• 3 long term rentals, and
  
  
• A house-hacked duplex.
  
  

He’s also been involved in flips, syndications, and even crypto investments, giving him broad experience across multiple asset classes.

As of 2024, Derek has helped over 300 families and investors buy and sell short term rental properties, with just under $200 million in closed volume.

Derek is known for his problem-solving mindset, strategic thinking, and dedication to helping each client navigate the challenges of investing with clarity and creativity — no matter their experience level or financing needs.

Whether you’re looking to buy your first STR cabin or grow a large-scale portfolio, Derek brings the experience, network, and energy to get you across the finish line.